The World Cup showdown against Mexico looms large, but England fans are being warned of the perils of staying up late to watch it. A 1 am kick-off has many supporters facing a daunting decision: sacrifice sleep or risk missing crucial action. And it's not just about getting through the match – sleep experts say the effects can last long after the final whistle blows.
With pubs now allowed to stay open till 5 am, fans have more options for communal viewing, but this only serves as a reminder of the late kick-off. Dr Dally Chalmers, a health psychologist at Keele University, is urging those who can't handle the night owl lifestyle to record the match instead. "It's just not worth it," she warns. "The consequences of sleep deprivation are no joke – grogginess, hunger pangs, and memory lapses are all on the menu for those who push their luck.
But what about those determined to stay up and cheer on their team? Dr Chalmers has a solution: a 20-30 minute power nap in the late afternoon. "Take it between 2 pm and 4 pm, focus on rest rather than deep sleep," she advises. It's not just about getting some shut-eye – it's about being sharp enough to enjoy the match without feeling like you're running on fumes.
And it seems even politicians aren't immune from the dilemma. Skills Minister Baroness Jacqui Smith has confessed to planning a "disco nap" before staying up for the match, highlighting the universal challenge facing England fans. Professor Charlie Pedlar's advice is to "bank" sleep beforehand by going to bed earlier in the run-up to the game. With both live and catch-up options available on the BBC, including a re-run at 7:10 am, there are plenty of ways for fans to get their World Cup fix – it just depends how they choose to tackle the late kick-off.
Source: Press Association